Amidst the labyrinthine tapestry of Varanasi, a fast track court is poised to deliberate on an application, filed by the sagacious Vijay Shankar Rastogi, beseeching the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a meticulous investigation into a structure reminiscent of a ‘shivling’ discovered during the preceding year’s survey within the unexplored recesses of the Gyanvapi mosque premises.

Rastogi, in his plea, cast an aura of uncertainty on the nature of the structure, questioning whether it is indeed a ‘shivling’ or, as contended by the Muslim faction, a ‘fountain.’ The application advocates for a scientific scrutiny not only of this enigmatic structure but also of the uncharted subterranean chambers. It underscores that the nether regions beneath the mosque haven’t been subjected to ASI’s scrutiny.

Simultaneously, in a Varanasi district court, the Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committee, custodians of the mosque, were directed to articulate their objections by February 28 in response to an application urging an exploration of sealed cellars.

The plaintiff contends in the judicial arena that an in-depth examination of the remaining cellars is imperative to fathom the religious essence of the Gyanvapi complex. Noteworthy is the revelation that certain subterranean chambers, concealed within the complex, remain inaccessible due to obstructed entrances. A directive is sought, compelling ASI to delve into the depths of these hitherto unexplored cellars.

Concurrently, the district judge has sanctioned the Hindu devotees to offer their devotions in the southern cellar of Gyanvapi—a sanctum once frequented by a lineage of venerable priests engaged in sacred rituals preceding the year 1993. This gesture prompted the unlocking of the basement, initiating a resurgence of worship. Swiftly, the Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committee contested this judicial edict, promptly approaching the high court to challenge the district court’s ruling.